Efren "Bata" Reyes, also known as "The Magician," has long been revered as one of the greatest pool players of all time.

His skill, finesse, and ability to outmaneuver opponents on the billiard table have earned him a legendary status in the world of cue sports.

However, in 2017, Reyes made a candid admission that sent shockwaves through the billiards community - he confessed that he was no longer the formidable force he once was.

The news of Reyes' revelation spread like wildfire, leaving fans and fellow players alike in disbelief. How could the great Efren Reyes, the man who seemed to possess an almost supernatural ability to control the cue ball, admit to a decline in his prowess?

It was a bitter pill to swallow for those who had idolized him for decades.

In an interview with ABS-CBN, Reyes spoke openly about the challenges he was facing. "They think I'm still good at playing. I already have weaknesses in other people. Lots of great players today. They made food for me," he said, acknowledging the fierce competition he now faced on the billiard circuit.

The once invincible Reyes, who earned his moniker "The Magician" for his seemingly otherworldly billiard skills, was now grappling with the inevitable effects of aging.

His physical ailments, including hand pain and deteriorating eyesight, posed significant obstacles to his performance on the table. It was a stark reminder that even the most extraordinary talents are not immune to the passage of time.

Despite his admission of vulnerability, Reyes displayed a characteristic resilience and grace in the face of adversity.

His trademark smile, a symbol of unwavering optimism, served as a balm for the disappointment felt by his fans. It was as if he was imparting a valuable lesson - that acceptance of life's challenges is an integral part of the journey.

Reyes' impact on the world of billiards cannot be overstated. His uncanny ability to anticipate shots and outmaneuver opponents earned him a reputation as a strategic genius. He was revered for his unparalleled mastery of the game, always staying several steps ahead of his rivals.

His influence extended far beyond the billiard table, shaping the way the sport was perceived and celebrated.

With over 70 international titles to his name, including four World Eight Ball Championship titles, Reyes' legacy is firmly entrenched in the annals of billiards history. Many sports analysts and aficionados consider him to be the greatest pool player of all time, placing him in the esteemed company of sporting legends such as Manny Pacquiao, Tiger Woods, and Michael Phelps.

However, despite his unparalleled success and widespread recognition, Reyes faced a stark reality - the financial landscape of professional pool had changed dramatically.

In 2017, he lamented the exorbitant costs associated with participating in tournaments, with expenses such as airfare and accommodation amounting to thousands of dollars. The disparity between the expenses incurred and the prize money awarded was a harsh reality that cast a shadow over the sport.

Reyes revealed that the prize money for winning competitions had dwindled significantly over the years, making it increasingly challenging for players to sustain their careers without substantial financial backing.

In an era where top athletes in more popular sports commanded substantial earnings and endorsements, billiards players found themselves grappling with diminished rewards and recognition.

The stark contrast between the glory days of billiards, when top prizes reached six figures, and the contemporary landscape where winning purses had dwindled to a fraction of that amount, underscored the challenges faced by players like Reyes.

Despite his illustrious career and numerous accolades, he found himself navigating a competitive arena that demanded resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Reyes' reflections on the changing dynamics of professional pool shed light on the broader issues confronting athletes in niche sports. The struggle for visibility, financial stability, and recognition loomed large, posing formidable obstacles for those who dedicated their lives to their craft.

The plight of billiards players like Reyes served as a poignant reminder of the inherent challenges embedded within the realm of professional sports.

As Reyes contemplated his future in the sport he had dedicated his life to, he grappled with profound questions about retirement and legacy.

The uncertainty surrounding his physical ailments and the evolving landscape of professional pool left him at a crossroads, pondering the path ahead.

Despite these challenges, Reyes' enduring spirit and indomitable will continued to inspire generations of aspiring billiards players.

His journey from a young prodigy in the Philippines to a global icon resonated with fans around the world, serving as a testament to the transformative power of dedication and perseverance.

In an era defined by rapid change and shifting paradigms, Efren "Bata" Reyes stood as a symbol of unwavering resilience and unwavering optimism. His legacy transcended the confines of billiards, encapsulating the essence of human tenacity and fortitude in the face of adversity.

As he navigated the complexities of an evolving sporting landscape, Reyes remained a beacon of hope for those who dared to dream and defy convention. His journey from "The Magician" to a sage statesman of billiards encapsulated the triumphs and tribulations inherent in a life dedicated to excellence.

In every stroke of the cue ball and every strategic maneuver on the table, Reyes embodied the essence of sporting greatness - a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the most revered figures in the history of billiards.

As Efren "Bata" Reyes embarked on the next chapter of his storied career, his enduring impact on the world of billiards would continue to resonate as a timeless testament to the power of resilience, passion, and unwavering spirit.